November 30, 2013
The Ukrainian Canadian Congress today denounced the brutal violence perpetrated against the peaceful protestors of “Euromaidan” in Kyiv Ukraine by Berkut special forces, which have left dozens seriously injured.
The Ukrainian Canadian Congress condemned the attack on the peaceful demonstrators gathered in Kyiv’s Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square), who were expressing their desire to integrate into the European Union.
“We thank the Government of Canada for their strong condemnation of the actions by the government of Ukraine. We ask all western governments to immediately impose targeted economic sanctions against those individuals responsible for these human rights abuses in Ukraine, including the freezing of assets and restrictions on visas,” stated UCC National President Paul Grod.
We urge Ukrainian authorities to investigate and prosecute those who authorized and executed these acts of violence against the people of Ukraine. We further call for the resignation of the authorities in Ukraine who have deliberately acted against the will and interests of the Ukrainian
The use of violence against peaceful protesters has sparked resignations by Members of Parliament from the governing Party of Regions and the resignation of a senior Ukrainian diplomat to Canada, Ms. Natalia Holub.
“We call upon the Ukrainian Canadian community to contact their elected officials to condemn this brutal act. We further call upon all Canadians to support the people of Ukraine through peaceful demonstrations and acts of protest at venues across the country (see attached). “
Demonstrations in solidarity with the Ukrainian people will be held across Canada, as follows:
City – Date – Time – Venue
Calgary – Sunday, December 1, 2013 – 3:30 p.m. – Olympic Plaza
Edmonton – Sunday, December 1, 2013 – 1:30 p.m. – Churchill Square.
Montreal – Monday, December 2, 2013 – 12:00 p.m. – Phillips Square
Ottawa – Monday, December 2, 2013 – 6:00 p.m. – Embassy of Ukraine in Canada,
Regina – Monday, December 2, 2013 – 12:15 p.m. – Legislative Building
Toronto – Sunday, December 1, 2013 – 2:00 p.m. – Consulate General of Ukraine
Vancouver – Sunday, December 1, 2013 – 2:00 p.m. – Outside Vancouver Art Gallery